In the fascinating realm of baseball statistics, metrics, and analytics, we find the term “On-base Plus Slugging” or OPS. It stands as a highly admired term. This elegant, two-component statistic sheds light on a batter’s ability to get on base. At the same time, it highlights their knack for power hitting.
How Do You Calculate OPS?
Unpacking OPS involves exploring its two main components. This allows us to appreciate the insights this particular metric offers. The On-Base Percentage (OBP) forms the first part of it. Hits, walks, and hit-by-pitches make up the numerator. We divide this sum by the total of at-bats, walks, sacrifice flies, and hit-by-pitches. OBP is a lens into a batter’s noteworthy skill of avoiding outs. This is a vital talent in the world of baseball statistics.
The Slugging Percentage (SLG) is the second component of OPS. It assigns a specific number to each type of hit. These are 1 for a single, 2 for a double, 3 for a triple, and 4 for a home run. We then divide this sum by the total number of at-bats. Clearly, this analytical metric holds power hits in higher esteem than singles.
Adding these two components gives us OPS. The fusion of OBP and SLG results in a handy analytical tool. It embodies a player’s ability to reach base and deliver power hits.
Taking a deeper look at OPS reveals more about a player’s overall offensive skills. This metric often says more than the conventional batting average does. That’s because the batting average overlooks power hitting and the talent to draw walks. An OPS score that’s over 1.000 denotes exceptional plate skills.
Who has the Highest OPS in MLB History?
Take the legendary baseball player, Babe Ruth, as an example. He boasts an awe-inspiring career OPS of 1.1636. This is the highest in Major League Baseball history. It exemplifies his amazing ability to get on base and his power-hitting skills. This statistic further cements his place as one of the all-time great hitters.
OPS holds a crucial place in baseball analytics. It provides a thorough analysis of a player’s offensive prowess. It unifies the skills of getting on base and power hitting into one all-encompassing metric. OPS adds depth to our understanding and assessment of a player’s multifaceted baseball skills. It plays a substantial role in the wider field of baseball statistics and analytics.